101 Essays that Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

1. The Art of Quality Over Quantity

In her remarkable book, Brianna Wiest urges us to appreciate the richness of quality, not the lure of quantity.

Happiness isn't about having more but experiencing what we love in novel, profound ways. Think about your favorite meal - is it the indulgence in the quantity that brings joy or the relishing of every bite?

Wiest posits

“Happiness is experiencing what you love in new and interesting ways.”

2. The Power of Embracing Fear

According to Wiest, fear isn't an enemy but a beacon guiding us toward our authentic selves. We often mistake fear as a sign of danger, but Wiest proposes that it indicates doing something worthwhile.

As she beautifully puts it:

“Change your story around fear. Bad feelings are not always bad.”

3. The Adventure of New Experiences

Wiest emphasizes that personal transformation is more about experiential learning than intellectual understanding. By seeking new experiences, we open ourselves up to new beliefs and ideas.

This is akin to the difference between reading about and visiting a country – the latter makes the experience palpable and real.

4. The Wisdom in Problems

Adopting a Stoic perspective, Wiest reframes problems as opportunities.

Instead of seeing them as hindrances, she invites us to embrace them as stepping stones toward success.

As the eminent Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius said,

"What stands in the way becomes the way."

5. The Fluidity of the Past

The book challenges our conventional thinking about the past. Wiest urges us to realize that history isn't concrete but subject to our evolving perceptions.

The idea is beautifully captured in her phrase

“Change your future, change your past.”

6. The Journey of Taming the Mind

An untamed mind, Wiest suggests, is like a minefield, riddled with impulsive and subconscious thinking.

She advocates for conscious decision-making, akin to how a seasoned sailor calmly and deliberately steers a ship amidst a storm.

7. The Comfort in Routines

Wiest underscores the power of habits and routines in quelling fear.

By making the unknown known, routines help pacify our primitive 'fight or flight responses, leading to a more serene life.

Just as a well-rehearsed piece of music brings joy to the musician, well-established habits bring joy and tranquility to our lives.

8. The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Wiest enlightens us about the significance of emotional intelligence. It's not about controlling our emotions but our reactions to them.

As she states:

“Gain control of your life by being aware of your emotions.”

9. The Freedom in Choosing Thoughts

The book asserts that our thoughts are often a product of social conditioning. Wiest encourages us to introspect and discern whether our beliefs genuinely belong to us.

As an old sweater no longer fits, let go of thoughts that no longer serve you.

10. The Empathy in Validating Feelings

Lastly, Wiest illuminates the power of empathy in strengthening relationships. By validating others' feelings, we show acceptance and respect for their individuality even when we disagree with them.

As she aptly suggests:

“Everyone's feelings deserve to be felt, seen, and respected.”